Oh, sugar… Tackle your cravings for good
Many people struggle to overcome their sugar cravings. Others may not even try because they assume it’s just not possible.
“I’ve always had a sweet tooth,” a client or friend will say, as if loving sugar is a fixed trait, like their brown eyes or sense of humor.
Not so! It is quite possible to quash your cravings for sweets. I’ve done it myself, and I’ve helped many clients do it as well.
We each crave sugar for different reasons (see below), so the first step is to uncover your possible causes. Usually there are multiple culprits.
Tackling sugar cravings could be easier than you think…
Causes of sugar cravings
Consuming too little water or sodium, both necessary for good hydration.
Low protein or high carbohydrate consumption, which can lead to blood sugar crashes that trigger sugar cravings.
Nutrient deficiencies such as magnesium, B vitamins and others.
The brain’s reward circuitry. Eating sugar and simple carbs (i.e. white flour foods) releases dopamine and opioids in the brain, which send us trolling for more sugar.
Chronic stress releases cortisol, which contributes to blood sugar imbalances.
Poor sleep can alter hunger & satiety hormones, stimulating cravings for sweet, crunchy or salty foods.
Exercise uses up glucose and glycogen (stored glucose) for energy, which can leave us depleted in the absence of protein, high-fiber foods and healthy fats. Ultimately, this can lead to sugar cravings.
Hormone fluctuations, especially with menstrual cycles.
Bacterial or fungal overgrowth in the digestive tract can stimulate sugar cravings.
Habit. If you’re used to eating a cookie every night at 8 p.m., you’re apt to continue doing so, in autopilot mode, even if you don’t experience an actual “craving.”
To help you overcome sugar cravings, we’ll examine what you eat, your eating routines and lifestyle factors like stress and sleep. I also look for clues in any recent blood work you’ve done. Then we’ll map out some simple steps to tackle your cravings, one day at a time. Willpower is not required!
What’s worked for my clients
They create balanced meals — protein, high-fiber veggies and healthy fats — which help them achieve steady blood sugar.
They drink more water, and they add electrolytes with prolonged exercise.
They learn to manage stress and improve sleep, with small and consistent changes.
They enlist the support of loved ones or friends in their household, to limit what sweets are readily available.
I guide them in developing new mindset strategies and daily routines that help them break the sugar habit, including using sweets as a reward.
Are you ready to crack the code on your sweet tooth? Call me!
